Each week during the 2013-14 season a Maryland student-athlete who has shown excellence on and off the playing field will be selected as the Solomon Eye Associates Terp of the Week. This week's Solomon Eye Associates Terp of the Week is the Maryland men’s soccer freshman Michael Sauers. Sauers scored the first goal in Maryland's NCAA second round win last Sunday.

By: Taylor Smyth - Maryland Media Relations Student Assistant

When Micheal Sauers’ winding run through the Providence defense ended in a goal, it looked like the freshman had made an incredibly unique play.

Outside observers may have viewed it that way, but for the Glen Arm native, that skillful tally was just what his coach told him to do.

“Whenever I get the ball in that position, my first instinct is to take the guy on,” Sauers said. “Sasho’s always telling me I have that ability. I got by the first guy, saw the next guy coming in quick, cut in, and finished.it off”

Sauers great individual effort was one of three tallies for the Terps, who defeated the Friars, 3-1, to advance to face UC Irvine in the NCAA Third Round Sunday at Ludwig Field.

With a number of returners from last year’s College Cup squad and a talented freshman class, the competition for spots in Maryland’s lineup has heated this season.

Through the clutter, Sauers has made his mark. The freshman has scored four goals in his debut campaign, including the winning goal in the ACC semifinals. The dangerous midfielder has enjoyed raising his game to the Terps’ championship level.

“It’s different [playing in college].” Sauers said. “This is the next level. It challenges me, which I like. It will make me better for years to come. It’s a pleasure to play with these guys.”

The consistency and hard-nosed mentality of the Terps experienced pieces is also something Sauers has tried to emulate.

“Pat Mullins is like a mentor to me. I always try to follow what he does. I look at the captains, Jake [Pace] and Dan [Metzger]. Everybody helps out.”

All of this development has put Sauers in a position to help the Terrapins reach their second consecutive College Cup and he’s confident that his squad is peaking at the right time. If his goal on Sunday was any indication, there is no doubt Sauers is coming into his own.

“We’ve just got to play Maryland soccer,” Sauers said. “That’s what we talk about all the time. We’ve just got to work hard, and I think we’ll come out with a victory.”